Finite Element Simulations and Experimental Analysis for Efficient Mugwort Harvesting

When mugwort is mechanically harvested, problems such as a low efficiency and high crushing rate seriously affect the quality of mugwort and restrict the development of the mugwort industry. In order to improve the efficiency of mugwort harvesting and reduce the crushing rate, the finite element method simulation and experiment are combined to study the optimal harvesting method of mugwort. Firstly, the parameters of the components of mugwort, such as the mugwort culm, mugwort stalk, and mugwort leaf, were investigated by tensile and three-point bending methods to determine the values of density, the modulus of elasticity, and Poisson’s ratio, and to establish the material mechanics model of mugwort. Secondly, harvesting of mugwort was simulated through the established three-dimensional model of mugwort, combined with its material mechanics model and using display dynamics. Finally, by conducting harvesting tests on mugwort, the harvesting force of different harvesting directions and harvesting positions were measured to reveal the harvesting mechanism of mugwort and to determine the optimal harvesting direction and position of mugwort leaves. The experimental results showed that the harvesting force was lowest when the harvesting angle was 0° or 90°, and the leaves were least damaged when the harvesting position was close to the stalk. The results of the study can provide data support for the study of the mechanical properties of mugwort and provide a theoretical basis for the research and development of high-efficiency and low-loss mugwort harvesting machinery and the optimisation of harvesting methods.